By Daniel Zimba
The Blantyre Chief Resident Magistrate (CRM) Court has adjourned to August 18, 2025 the sodomy case involving Netherlands national Wim Akster after nodding to the State’s plea to amend the charge sheet to include six more related counts against the suspect.
CRM Paul Chiotcha presided over Tuesday’s hearing, during which the first State witness was cross-examined by Fostino Maere, the lawyer representing the accused.
During cross-examination, the first witness testified that Akster once demanded that the witness perform oral sex on him.
The six new charges against Akster include counts of buggery under Section 153(A) of the Penal Code, accusing him of having carnal knowledge against the order of nature, and gross indecency under Section 156(A) of the Penal Code.
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Akster has denied all the new allegations.
Following the hearing, Maere expressed concern that some individuals were fabricating false witness claims against Akster.
He said he was prepared to defend his client vigorously until those attempting to undermine Akster’s position fail in their efforts.
“Our line of argument is that there are individuals from outside Malawi who want to fight their battles against Wim Akster by raising false witness claims, and we will fight them until their attempts fail and are exposed,” Maere said.
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Meanwhile, Victor Jere, the lawyer representing the State, has expressed satisfaction with the case’s progress while acknowledging the delays it has faced.
Jere said the State was committed to ensuring that justice is served and that the law takes its course against anyone proven guilty by the court.
According to Jere, the State is ready to move forward with the next witness as the newly scheduled hearing approaches.
“We are satisfied with progress made so far,” Jere said.
